Autumn transforms Percé into a living, breathing work of art. Quieter than in summer, the landscapes gradually take on vibrant hues, offering a more peaceful and intimate experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a fan of local flavors… here are 7 ways to fall in love with Percé this autumn.
1. Admire Percé Rock in the Golden Light
No trip to Percé is complete without seeing its iconic landmark: Percé Rock. In autumn, this majestic monolith is bathed in soft, golden light—perfect for photos. With fewer crowds, you can fully appreciate the calm beauty of the coastline. Every angle offers a new perspective, so have fun capturing it!
Top spots for photos: Mont Joli, Côte Surprise rest stop, Pic de l’Aurore, Percé wharf, and the “green tower” on Promenade de la Grave.
2. Hike Bonaventure Island
Accessible by boat until Thanksgiving, Bonaventure Island is a natural gem and a world-famous migratory bird sanctuary. Explore trails winding through colorful forests, cliffs, and meadows, leading to the impressive colony of northern gannets. The island is also rich in history and heritage. Plan for at least 4–5 hours.
Catch the first morning boat with Croisières Julien Cloutier or Les Bateliers de Percé - it’s worth it!
3. Explore the UNESCO Global Geopark
For hiking enthusiasts, the UNESCO Global Geopark in Percé offers breathtaking landscapes. Autumn highlights the fiery colors of the Gaspé forests, as well as stunning geological wonders: caves, crevices, bottomless pits, and a magical forest.
Don’t miss the glass-bottomed platform suspended 200 meters above the ground, offering a unique view of the village and the rock—thrills guaranteed! The Geopark features 18 km of trails ranging from easy to intermediate. Pick up a trail map to make the most of your visit.
4. Go on a Marine Mammal-Watching Adventure
Autumn is an excellent season for spotting marine mammals along the Gaspé Peninsula. Whales, seals, porpoises, and dolphins frequently swim near Percé. Guided boat tours are available through October with Croisières Julien Cloutier and Les Bateliers de Percé.
Keep your eyes open—many marine mammals can even be seen from the shore!
5. Indulge in Local Specialties
Autumn is the perfect time to explore Percé’s local flavors. Treat yourself to smoked salmon, craft beers, maple treats, fresh seafood, and more. Discover the creations of local distilleries, and end the day with a delicious meal featuring seasonal ingredients.
Don’t miss the traditional cod cakes—a must-try!
6. Discover Culture and Heritage
Percé remains culturally vibrant even after summer. Art galleries, artisan workshops, museums, and performance spaces offer plenty of ways to immerse yourself in local history and creativity.
Take your time to explore and appreciate Percé’s heritage with an audio-guided historical tour.
7. Explore Greater Percé
Stretching over 60 km from coast to hinterland, Percé offers countless landscapes to explore. Head east or west for scenic stops: Coin-du-Banc, Pointe Saint-Pierre, Emerald River Park, each with its own charm.
Treat yourself to relaxation at Sentiers Secrets or Thuya Spa, or add adventure with a guided sea kayaking tour with Le Nordet or a fatbike ride along the coast.
Heading west, don’t miss L’Anse-à-Beaufils, La Vieille Usine, and Cap-d’Espoir beach and lighthouse—fabulous landscapes await!
Autumn in Percé is Gaspé at its finest: vibrant colors, serene coastlines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a whole week, these 7 must-do experiences will make your getaway unforgettable.
This blog post is sponsored by Tourisme Percé.
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